Photo by Patrick Schneider on Unsplash
Australian Shepherds are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise. This will include daily walks, runs, and playtime in a fenced-in backyard. They also need mental stimulation through training sessions, puzzle toys, and agility activities. Like all puppies, Mini Aussies have an inquisitive nature. They may chew or nip at anything within reach, including items in the kitchen and electrical cords.
Puppy-proof your home
Mini Australian Shepherd puppies are known for their boundless energy, curiosity, and playful nature. However, their curious minds can also lead them into mischief if their home needs to be properly puppy-proofed. To ensure your home is a safe and comfortable haven for your new furry friend, you must take proactive measures to protect your pet and your belongings. One of the most important steps is to secure all potential hazards, such as electrical cords, cleaning supplies, and medications. These items should be stored out of reach in cabinets or on high shelves to prevent your puppy from accidentally chewing on or ingesting them.
Additionally, it’s crucial to keep all doors to potentially dangerous rooms, such as the garage or laundry room, closed and locked. Another key aspect of puppy-proofing is to remove or block off any areas that pose a risk of injury or entrapment. This includes covering exposed vents or crawl spaces, securing loose floorboards or railings, and removing toxic plants or objects that could cause choking or digestive issues. Provide your puppy with plenty of appropriate chew toys to keep your furniture and belongings safe from chewing and scratching. These toys should be made from durable materials and vary in size and texture to keep your puppy engaged and occupied.
Additionally, redirecting your puppy’s chewing behavior to these toys can help prevent them from targeting your furniture or personal items. Remember, puppy-proofing is an ongoing process, and as your puppy grows and develops, you may need to make adjustments to your home to ensure their safety and well-being. Regular supervision and consistent training are also essential in preventing destructive behaviors and ensuring a harmonious coexistence between you and your furry companion.
Invest in a good bed
Australian Shepherds can live happily in homes with children and other dogs but require lots of exercise to stay happy and healthy. This herding breed thrives with plenty of physical activity, so getting them involved in family activities like hiking, biking, jogging, and camping is a good idea. They also love playing games with their humans, including hunting barns and lure coursing. A sturdy bed is essential for your Aussie to rest in after a long day of play and herding, so choose one durable enough for their active lifestyle. A quality mattress is breathable to keep your pup cool, while skid-resistant feet keep the frame stable. Puppies tend to be destructive, so it’s important to consider if your Australian Shepherd puppy will chew the bed. Look for mattresses that are chew-proof and made from tough material. Consider a bolster-style bed that provides additional head and neck support.
Stock up on toys
Aussies love to chew and gnaw, so it’s important to have plenty of stimulating toys available. Rotate the toys frequently and use treats to keep them interesting. Australian Shepherds require lots of exercise to be happy. They have an inborn herding instinct and are very athletic. They’re not content to lie around all day and would much rather be out running, hiking, at the dog park or working on puzzles. They also need a lot of mental stimulation, so include training sessions, playtime and even agility activities in their daily routines. They’re also great partners for barn hunts, tracking or lure coursing. Early and continuous socialization is vital for these herding dogs. They may be slightly reserved, but they must be exposed to people of all ages, situations and environments to become confident and well-mannered adult dogs. This is why obedience classes are highly recommended by a trainer who uses positive reinforcement methods.
Grooming supplies
Australian shepherds are double-coated dogs and heavy shedders, especially during their shedding seasons. Brushing them regularly is the best way to keep their coat healthy and looking great, preventing matting and tangling. We recommend purchasing a good quality slicker brush, pin brush and undercoat rake. Once you have these grooming supplies, set aside time each week to brush your Mini Aussie thoroughly from head to tail. Be gentle when brushing, and don’t press too hard, as this can be painful for them. It’s also important to be consistent so your dog becomes accustomed to getting brushed regularly. You may also want to invest in a pair of nail clippers for your pup. Be sure to use a team made of safe, long-lasting ingredients.
Start training
An Australian shepherd is an intelligent, eager-to-please dog that thrives on training. They can quickly pick up on commands, especially if constantly reinforced. Teach your Aussie basic obedience, like sitting and down. This will help keep them focused and calm inside your home. Australian Shepherds also respond well to recall training, but consistency is important. Use a unique word or phrase for the recall command, and make sure that all family members use it the same way so your puppy understands. Be mindful of your puppy’s diet. A high-quality diet is key to ensuring that your puppy stays healthy and happy. Exercise your dog often to keep her from developing bad habits and to burn off excess energy. Go on long walks, play fetch, or even take her on runs with you. She may also enjoy tricks and agility classes.
